Faith & frıends Inspiration for Living April 2006 www.SalvationArmy.ca Brokeback Mountain’s Dilemma UNCHAINED MELODY Soprano Measha Brueggergosman hits all the right notes EASTER DEBATE: Did Jesus Really Rise From the Dead?
If you would like to learn more about the Easter message, mail the coupon on page 31, visit our website at www.salvationarmy.ca or contact us at: The Salvation Army Editorial Department, 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto, ON M4H 1P4 What does Easter mean to you? Easter eggs? Chocolate bunnies? First sign of spring? If that’s all you think about, then you are missing an essential part of the holiday. This year, take time to search for the true meaning of Easter: the love and sacrifce of Jesus Christ. He came to earth to show us how to live today … and forever! Jesus suffered and died on a cross to pay the penalty for the sin of the world. After three days, he was resurrected to show that God has the ultimate victory. Visit a church on Good Friday or Easter Sunday and hear about the life-saving message of Jesus. It’s one Easter hunt that will truly satisfy. You don’t have to hunt for the true meaning of Easter
April 2006 Volume 9 Number 4 page 6 page 28 The New Face of Homelessness 16 The Salvation Army’s Gateway shelter is seeing more middle-aged white men who just can’t keep up with the rent Morning has Broken 28 Before reaching for the newspaper and coffee, say a prayer of thanksgiving. It’s a great way to start the day So Much to Tell 6 With every sound she makes, soprano Measha Brueggergosman offers her thanks to God. This diva has her feet on the ground, but her music is heavenly features April 2006 April 2006 Faith & friends friends |
Nobel Aspirations I magine reading your own obituary in the newspaper. That’s exactly what happened to Swedish munitions manufacturer Alfred Nobel in 1888. When Nobel’s brother died, a French newspaper ran a long obituary of Alfred Nobel, believing that it was he who had passed away. Nobel was distressed by the article, which condemned his invention of dynamite and described him as a man who had made it possible to kill more people more quickly than anyone else who had ever lived. The obituary made Nobel decide to leave a better legacy to the world after his death. In his will, he left the bulk of his estate to establish the Nobel Prizes for outstanding achievement in literature, peace, economics, medicine and the sciences. What about you? How will you be remembered? What will your legacy be? No eulogy ever recalled how a person took fabulous vacations, drove an expensive car or built an extravagant home. I’ve never heard anyone praised for being too busy at work or for being rich and famous. Rather, people are remembered for how they enhanced the lives of others, how they loved their family, how they gave to charitable causes and how they treated others with kindness and respect. In this issue of Faith & Friends, you’ll meet people such as soprano Measha Brueggergosman, and Salvation Army workers Dion Oxford, Lillian Spence and Ron Wickens, who are taking the time for what really matters—serving God and helping others. A full life is not about how long you live, but about what you do with the days you are given. Like Alfred Nobel, you can choose a life that blesses others. —Geoff Moulton, editor Mission Stateme n t To show Christ at work in the lives of real people, and to provide spiritual resources for those who are new to the Christian faith. Faith &friends is published monthly by The Salvation Army 2 Overlea Blvd, Toronto Ontario M4H 1P4 International Headquarters 101 Queen Victoria Street, London England EC4P 4EP William and Catherine Booth Founders Shaw Clifton General Commissioner M. Christine MacMillan territorial commander Lt-Colonel Ray Moulton editor-in-chief Geoff Moulton senior editor Timothy Cheng art director Brandon Laird senior graphic designer Lt-Colonel Marilyn Moulton assistant to the editor-in-chief Linda Leigh proofreader Scripture Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture references are taken from Today’s New International Version Phone (416) 422-6226 Fax (416) 422-6120 Website www.salvationarmy.ca E-mail [email protected] Subscription for one year, including shipping and handling Canada $16.50; U.S. $21.50; Foreign $23.50 Phone (416) 422-6112 [email protected] All articles are copyright The Salvation Army Canada & Bermuda and cannot be reproduced without permission. Publications Mail Agreement No. 40064794 | Faith & friends April 2006
Analyze This Brokeback Mountain 10 This year’s Oscar favourite deals with an issue that many fnd uncomfortable: homosexuality. Christians must balance biblical conviction with compassion Big Questions Did Jesus Really Die and Rise Again? 12 He died on a cross and was buried in a tomb. But did Jesus really come back to life? Find out how the Easter story makes a difference today God In My Life An Offcer and a Gentleman 14 Ron Wickens has worn two uniforms—as a policeman and a Salvation Army offcer. In both careers, his heart has been focused on helping people Faith Builders Clean Sweep 19 Do you need an extreme makeover? Three steps to purge the junk in your life and experience a life-changing renovation Someone Cares In the Wake of Katrina 20 A hurricane may have split James and his wife apart. But in the midst of destruction, The Salvation Army brought them back together Sacred Space The Big Book Beckons 22 It’s flled with compelling stories of shipwrecks, epic battles and sacrifcial love. But where do you start? How to read the Bible without getting bogged down departments April 2006 Faith & friends |
Canadian soprano Measha Brueggergosman glides barefoot onto centre stage with her elegant gown and famboyant hair. The pianist begins to play and the audience waits in anticipation. They are not disappointed. Measha’s magnifcent voice flls the hall, demanding sole attention. With each item of her versatile program, she performs with power and sensitivity. One has the sense that Measha has an intimate connection to the poetry she sings. to Tell With every sound she makes, soprano Measha Brueggergosman offers her thanks to God by John McAlister So Much | Faith & friends April 2006
“Every time I step on stage I feel charged by the whole atmosphere of performing,” says Measha, 28. “I get so excited and humbled by the people who paid money to sit in those seats. Just the act of unleashing a sound or being enveloped by an orchestra, or just raising my game to that of my pianist, creates a constant and unwavering love, and a hunger to be better and to do justice to what I do.” Measha has performed with many of the fnest international orchestras and conductors in the world. During the 2005-06 season, her symphonic debuts included Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 with Jahja Ling and the San Diego Symphony; Mozart’s Requiem with Itzhak Perlman and the Seattle Symphony; and Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 with Bramwell Tovey and the Orchestre Philharmonique du Luxembourg in Belgium. In addition to her busy schedule, Measha had the privilege of giving a royal command performance for Queen Elizabeth II. She’s also been honoured to sing for the Prince of Wales, President Tarja Halonen of Finland, former prime minister Paul Martin, former governor general Adrienne Clarkson and former president of South Africa Nelson Mandela. Early Years Born in Fredericton, N.B., Measha grew up in a Christian family. Her parents, Sterling and Ann Gosman, have been members of Brunswick Street Baptist Church since before she was born. Her brother is a pastor in Nova Scotia, and her father began divinity studies after retiring as a technician for CBC Radio. “Church played a huge role in my upbringing. I started performing there and my very first music teacher was the music director,” says Measha. “My faith continues to infuence the decisions I make, how I try to live my life and what I will and won’t do on stage. It forms the basis of my security and self-esteem.” Measha’s music training began when her elementary music teacher recognized her gift for melody, pitch and rhythm. “She said that I had a type of fearlessness that might be conducive to singing lessons,” laughs Measha. “She insisted that I also take piano lessons, otherwise I wouldn’t be able to read music.” Measha was thrilled that she could study piano. Initially, she viewed her voice lessons as just an added bonus. Her early music training followed the classical tradition, whether she was at music lessons, singing at church or listening to the CBC. In her teen years, Measha studied voice with Mabel Doak and spent her summers at the Boston Conservatory. Then, before moving to Toronto to attend university, she studied for one year with Wendy Nielson. Born Performer Measha can’t pinpoint the exact moment when she decided to pursue “Every time I step on stage I feel charged by the whole atmosphere of performing” April 2006 Faith & friends |
voice as her education and possible career. “This profession isn’t a decision you make—it’s kind of something you become,” she says. “I never thought that I would do anything else. I simply pursued my gift.” Living in Fredericton provided Measha with many performance opportunities. “When you grow up in a small town where there is one of everything, you quickly become the town singer for all the weddings, funerals and bar mitzvah types of events,” she jokes. “I have always been paid to perform. And since I have no other marketable skills, I’m thankful and blessed that this is working out for me as a profession.” Measha attended the University of Toronto, studying with voice teacher Mary Morrison. In her final year, she played Madame Lindoine in the university’s production of Dialogues des Carmélites. While participating in a masterclass led by renowned soprano Edith Wiens, she decided to pursue postgraduate studies with her in Germany. Since then Measha’s career has rapidly gained momentum, and she is constantly in demand for concert recitals and operatic performances around the world. She seems equally comfortable singing with orchestral or piano accompaniment, but the audience seems to appreciate most the unaccompanied renditions of the spirituals she’s sung since she was a child. “From the earliest of times, people have been praising the Lord through whatever sustainable sound they could create,” she says. “Music is simply a medium through which people express emotion. Since God created music, as a Christian, every sound I make I am attempting in some small, intangible, unworthy way to express how thankful I am.” Home Life Measha’s family provides a strong support system. “My parents made it their goal in life to uncover the gifts of their children,” she says. “My sister was an accomplished international gymnast and my brother is a pastor who has four kids and a PhD. My parents raised us with boundless, limitless possibilities. Nothing was a risk if it was our gift, if it was what God meant us to do.” She met her husband, Markus, in high school when he was an exchange student from Switzerland. When they married they combined his surname, Bruegger, with hers, creating the new surname, Brueggergossman, that they both share. At her wedding she vowed to wear her wedding dress during her Carnegie Hall debut. Six years later it happened. Measha as Liù in Puccini’s Turaddot | Faith & friends April 2006
Before each performance, Measha and Markus pray together. “We recognize that the gifts and the obstacles, the blessings and the hardships, the money and the debt, the undulation and the criticism are all of God,” she says. “We fnd praise in all things, and we count it all joy that we get to be on this journey together.” When she’s home in Toronto— which isn’t all that often—Measha and Markus attend High Park Baptist Church. “To keep my relationship with the Lord alive when I’m on the road, I have to be constantly in prayer and in constant contact with Him,” she says. In her off time, Measha turns to regular outlets to relax and unwind. “I’m simple to the point of boring,” she laughs. “I need to get rid of cable, I’ll just point that out. TV is such a time waster. My mother doesn’t call it the idiot box for nothing. But I love reality television—and I’m not ashamed to admit it. “I like activity in my house,” she continues. “I like having friends around. And oh Lord, do I like food. I love things that taste good and look good and smell good. I think I’m like anybody else. I enjoy getting a manicure, pedicure and a nice massage.” Defning Success Following her dream has required much faith and trust in God. “This career has no assurances and no retirement plan,” says Measha. “There really is no Plan B; either it works out or it doesn’t. God has been good to me this far, and I’ve never once felt as though this wasn’t the career for me. I’m thrilled that He saw ft to put His hand on my life and steer it the way He has.” Measha doesn’t defne her success financially. “I think to love and be loved is quite fabulous,” she says. “It makes me feel like a success, whether it is the love of a parent or the love of a spouse or the love of a very close friend. I think that earning someone else’s love or loving yourself enough enables you to have a surplus of it to give away to someone else. And that really is a blessed thing.” But Measha certainly appreciates being paid for what she’s good at. “I think that being successful in a pursuit that is close to your heart is very rewarding,” she says. “Being an opera singer is what I’ve always known I was meant to do. I am constantly humbled by the people I get to work with, the composers I get to serve and the Lord who makes it all possible.” So Much to Tell, Measha’s frst solo commercial recording on the CBC Records label, with the Manitoba Chamber Orchestra and conductor Roy Goodman, features music by Barber, Copland and Gershwin. Her second release, Extase, presents a program of Berlioz’s Les nuits d’été and Massenet opera arias with Yoav Talmi and the Orchestre Symphonique de Québec. Measha Brueggergosman has been the subject of a fulllength feature documentary, Spirit in her Voice, aired by the CBC network. She has also starred in a short flm entitled Go Diva!, which was produced by the BRAVO network. Go Diva! April 2006 Faith & friends |
Fr om dir ector Ang Lee (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon) comes an unconventional Western, based on the short story by Annie Proulx. Set against the sweeping vistas of Wyoming and Texas, Brokeback Mountain tells the story of two young men—a ranch-hand and a rodeo cowboy—who meet in the summer of 1963 and unexpectedly fall in love … with each other. On the open range they forge a lifelong connection that leads to feeting moments of joy mixed with tragedy and frustration. Early one morning in Signal, Wyoming, Ennis del Mar (Heath Ledger) and Jack Twist (Jake Gyllenhaal) encounter one another while lining up for employment with local rancher Joe Aguirre (Randy Quaid). Both young men seem certain of their places in the heartland—obtaining steady work, marrying and raising a family—and yet hunger for something beyond what they can articulate. When Aguirre dispatches them to work as sheepherders up on majestic Brokeback Mountain, Ennis and Jack gravitate towards camaraderie, and then develop a deeper intimacy. When they share a small tent one night, the sex that they engage in is both awkward and desperate. In the morning neither man wants to admit their illicit love, or that they might be “queer.” Instead, they bury their feelings deep inside. At summer’s end, the two must come down from Brokeback and part ways. Remaining in Wyoming, Ennis weds his sweetheart Alma (Michelle Williams), with whom he will have two daughters as he ekes out a living. Jack, in Texas, catches the eye of a rodeo queen Lureen Newsome (Anne Hathaway). Their courtship and marriage result in a son, as well as jobs in her father’s business. Analyze This Brokeback Mountain This year’s Oscar favourite deals with an issue that many fnd uncomfortable: homosexuality. Christians must balance biblical conviction with compassion by Geoff Moulton 10 | Faith & friends April 2006
Four years later, Alma brings Ennis a postcard from Jack, who is en route to visit Wyoming. Ennis waits expectantly for his friend, and when Jack at last arrives, it is clear that the passage of time has only strengthened the men’s attachment. In the years that follow, Ennis and Jack struggle to keep their secret bond alive. According to the tight-jawed Ennis, “If you can’t fx it, you gotta stand it.” Even when they are apart, they face the eternal questions of fdelity, commitment and trust. Brokeback Mountain is a complicated movie. Do Ennis and Jack love each other because they are gay, or are they gay because they love each other? If they had never met, would they have happily lived a heterosexual life? While the question of whether a person is “born” gay is still open to debate, the Bible clearly states that homosexual practise is not acceptable (see Leviticus 18:22, 20:13; Romans 1:26-27; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11). Some have accused the movie of having a homosexual agenda. It may be easy to dismiss the movie as a “gay cowboy movie,” when, in fact, the movie gives us much to reflect on. While Christians will not agree with the lifestyle choices, Brokeback Mountain highlights the very human struggles that many experience—discouragement, pain, security, loss, love and hope. God understands broken relationships, but His goal is to make people whole again. According to the Bible, God intended marriage to be a lifelong, committed relationship between a man and a woman. Ennis and Jack’s illicit affair is misguided and sinful, and the painful consequences on their marriages are clear. But the Bible also teaches that “all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Before condemning others, Christians must look at their own lives—lust, pornography, spousal abuse and extramarital affairs dishonour God as much as homosexual acts. Only when we admit and understand our own brokenness can we reach out with compassion and show those in the gay community the love of Jesus. Ang Lee’s movie is a reminder that relationships shape us—for better or for worse. Jesus offers forgiveness, healing and hope to anyone trapped in sexual sin. If Christians can be open to receive sinners in the way that Jesus did, more of those who struggle with homosexuality might fnd peace through open confession and greater accountability to God’s Word. Love is not simply “a force of nature” as the flm’s tagline implies, but something that originates from a higher Source. Editor’s note: This flm depicts a homosexual relationship, and includes a graphic sex scene. This review is not a recommendation to see the flm, but an attempt, from a Christian standpoint, to struggle with the questions that the flm presents. The Salvation Army does not discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation in the delivery of its social services. Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal star in Ang Lee’s unconventional Western April 2006 Faith & friends | 11
One of the most enjoyable portrayals of the Christian message I have recently experienced was the movie The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. My childhood visions of Narnia from reading the book by C.S. Lewis came to life on the screen before me. Upon leaving the theatre, I wondered how many viewers realized that they had just witnessed a gripping interpretation of the Christian message. C.S. Lewis, a brilliant scholar and writer, taught at Oxford University and wrote the series of books called The Chronicles of Narnia. The books provide an important interpretation of essential Christian beliefs. In The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Lewis depicts essential features of Jesus Christ through the lion, Aslan. Aslan represents a type of Christ fgure, and many similarities may be drawn between them. However, the most striking one relates to the notion of death and resurrection. Both Aslan and Jesus willingly lay down their lives to save others. In their sufferings, Aslan and Jesus are treated cruelly and unmercifully by their torturers, but neither complain or attempt to break free. Their deaths bring about redemption. In the movie, Edmund, a young boy, is redeemed from the power of the White Witch by Aslan. In Scripture, Jesus redeems all humanity from the power of sin. Death cannot hold Aslan—a fact joyfully experienced by Susan and Lucy as they once again touch his mane and feel the warmth of his breath. The Gospel writers attest to the fact that Jesus appeared following His crucifxion—an event witnessed by more than 500 of His followers. Lewis’ novel and the recent movie tell a captivating tale. But is the story He died on a cross and was buried in a tomb. But did Jesus really come back to life? Why the Easter story matters by Justin Bradbury Did Jesus Really Die and Rise Again? BIG Questions 12 | Faith & friends April 2006
of Jesus—His life, death and resurrection—akin to the genre of fantasy and myth that Lewis employs? Can we really believe that Jesus died and rose again from death? The gospel writers were convinced that these events took place. The impact of Christ’s resurrection radically altered their worldview and changed the course of their lives. The fact that Jesus died is one attested to by eyewitnesses and followers of Jesus. Jesus’ mother and Mary Magdalene were near the cross when Jesus died (Matthew 27:56). One of the Roman centurions who oversaw Jesus’ crucifxion was so moved by the manner in which Jesus died that he said, “surely this man was the Son of God” (Mark 15:39). From a medical point of view, Jesus did, indeed die on the cross, for blood and water fowed out of Him when He was pierced near the heart (John 19:34-35). Why would we need to verify that Jesus died? Some scholars deny that Jesus rose from the grave by claiming He didn’t actually die on the cross, but revived in the cool of the tomb. However, the primary historical record—the New Testament—demonstrates that Jesus did indeed die. But what is even more astounding is the gospel’s claim that three days later, He rose again from death. His resurrection was witnessed by numerous people and on many occasions. He appeared to Mary Magdalene (John 20:10-18); to two of His followers on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35); during a gathering of a group of disciples while they were having a meal (Luke 24:36-49); on a beach early one morning after three of the disciples were out fshing (John 21:1-14); to more than 500 of the early Christians at one time (1 Corinthians 15:6). All of these experiences of the risen Jesus took place over a six-week period. None of the denials of Jesus’ resurrection rely upon concrete evidence. On the contrary, the only evidence that we do have compellingly leads us to believe that Jesus did not remain in the grave, but rose from the dead. C.S. Lewis’ books are splendid stories, but the record of Jesus’ death and resurrection is no myth. It is the foundation of God’s purpose for the world, and it is the joy and hope of every believer in Jesus. C.S. Lewis wrote in Mere Christianity that Jesus must either be a madman, a deceiver or the Lord of life, as He claimed to be. We must decide for ourselves who we believe Him to be. This Easter, why not explore the claims of the Bible concerning Jesus’ death and resurrection? Join an Alpha group in your community, or visit a church that unashamedly affirms that Jesus may be personally known as Saviour and Friend. He is alive today, and is willing to make Himself known to all who have faith in Him. Both Aslan and Jesus willingly lay down their lives to save others … Their deaths bring about redemption April 2006 Faith & friends | 13
GOD IN My Life S ometimes calls for police service with the potential to really escalate in violence end up OK,” recalls retired 22-year police offcer Ron Wickens. It was May 1987. Ron was a seven-year veteran of the force and had just arrived at the scene of a robbery in progress in the early morning hours. The suspect was still inside the store. Although he was armed, Ron convinced the man to surrender his weapon and let the clerk go. No one got hurt. Ron’s dream of helping others through public service became reality when, at age 20, he was hired as a police offcer. For the majority of his career Ron walked the beat. “I loved working on the streets,” he smiles. In 1991, however, these streets turned Ron’s life and the lives of his young family upside down. “It was a crazy night in the city,” he recalls. Even with 11 years on the force, he had never seen such a wild night. “It seemed that everywhere major violent incidents were happening. All hell was breaking loose. We didn’t have enough cars or offcers.” At 4:15 a.m. a distraught young woman called the department. Her ex-husband, disobeying a restraining An Officer and a Gentleman Ron Wickens has worn two uniforms—as a policeman and a Salvation Army offcer. In both careers, his heart has been focused on helping people by Linda Leigh Clowning Around: Ron (left) jokes with with one of his parishioners 14 | Faith & friends April 2006
order, was riled and on his way to see her. For Ron, a routine call for service turned into a desperate call for help. When Ron arrived on the scene, a crowd had surrounded the front of the apartment complex. An uncontrollable young man was screaming and wielding a knife. A bystander who had tried to help had been stabbed in the hand and the situation was deteriorating. Lives were being threatened. Ron had to deal immediately with the situation. Timing was critical. After repeated verbal attempts to disarm the 17-year-old, the raging young man came toward Ron with a knife. “It was as if everything had slowed down,” says Ron, as he struggles to relive the moment. “I could only think of my wife and children. I didn’t want to die.” The young man lunged at Ron. Ron looked down the barrel of his gun and fred. The teen fell backwards onto the grass. Ron’s subsequent attempts at CPR were unsuccessful and the assailant succumbed to his injury. Although Ron was devastated by the end result, he knew that if had he not acted, he and many others would have been the victims that night. Cards, flowers and practical support, even from people they had never met, offered strength to Ron, Judi and their family after this traumatising incident. Judi still wears a silk scarf that was sent to her as a gift following the shooting. “I didn’t know the lady at all,” she says. “She made the scarf and said: ‘This is a reminder that I am praying for you.’ ” As Ron fought against loneliness and depression, he found comfort from his comrades in blue and through the help of friends, prayer, Bible study and a book on Philippians by Chuck Swindoll entitled Laugh Again. “It helped me pick up my bootstraps and carry on,” he confdes. Ron also believes that counselling is essential to reclaiming your life. “With every trauma, there is emotional baggage and residue. If it’s not dealt with, it will return to haunt you.” On that har r owing night in 1991, Ron believes God protected him from harm. He trusts in the words of the Apostle Paul: “My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power” (1 Corinthians 2:4-5). Fifteen years later Ron and Judi want to share the lessons they have learned from this horrific period in their lives. Together they serve as Salvation Army pastors in a small rural town in Canada. Although Ron has exchanged a police uniform for that of a Salvation Army offcer, he and Judi are still passionate about reaching people at their deep points of need. “We lean on God’s word,” says Judi. “We are ordinary people with an extraordinary task. Micah 6:8 says: “It’s quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbour, be compassionate and loyal in your love, and don’t take yourself too seriously—take God seriously” (The Message). Ron and Judi lean on God’s strength through prayer April 2006 Faith & friends | 15
The new world of homelessness is far from the stereotype of the addled, the addict and the alcoholic Photo: Mark Bonokoski, Sun Media Corp 16 | Faith & friends April 2006
I n January of last year, during the peak of one of the more frigid winters on record, there were 14 extreme cold weather alerts issued by Toronto to warn the homeless to seek shelter. This January there was only one. Last year, during the notorious Year of the Gun in which 52 died by bullet, Dion Oxford lost 10 “friends” who had passed through his door—none were shot, but all are just as dead nonetheless, just as they were homeless. They did not die, however, from winter’s cold. Summer can lay claim to being the prime perpetrator in the killing of the homeless, aided and abetted by heat and dehydration. No, rather than dying from winter’s cold, these 10 men died instead from a human coldness that runs from the cold heart to the cold shoulder, and to all the coldness in-between. Beaten to Death There was Paul Croutch, for example, a 59-year-old paranoid schizophrenic who was beaten to death as he harmlessly lay in his sleeping bag on his favourite bench near the Moss Park Armoury—allegedly by the two army reservists now facing frst-degree murder charges. First-degree murder is the coldest of the cold. It is premeditated, thought out and then executed. “Paul was a former newspaperman with serious mental health issues,” says Dion. “He left hundreds of letters behind, most of them accusing us of selling his secrets to Interpol. But he was a human being, like all of us.” Dion Oxford, 36, is the founding director of the Salvation Army’s Gateway hostel at the corner of Jarvis and Richmond in Toronto, close to the epicentre of addicts and alcoholics, the homeless and the helpless. “But we are all equals here,” he says, with last week being a celebration of the hostel’s sixth anniversary as “the hand of God in the heart of the city.” The other nine deaths from among Gateway’s comers-and-goers? Two by their own hand, and the others “simply from wear and tear ... the not- The New Face of Homelessness The Salvation Army’s Gateway shelter is seeing more middle-aged white men who just can’t keep up with the rent by Mark Bonokoski April 2006 Faith & friends | 17
so-natural causes,” says Dion. It would be those 10, however, who would represent the public’s impression of who comes and goes from Gateway. But that impression would be a long way from the truth. According to the 2005 statistics which Dion Oxford has just compiled, one out of every two faces who passed through Gateway’s doors were new to the world of homelessness, and far from the public’s mind’s-eye stereotype of the addled, the addict and the alcoholic. Slip Through Cracks “And 80 percent of those new faces are the white, Canadian men who are increasingly slipping through the cracks of small towns right across Canada,” says Dion. “I call it the modern-day famine. In the Bible, famine is usually related to agriculture when labour bears no fruit for so long that the work fnally stops and all hope is lost. In the urban famine, it is working one low-paying job after another, without promotion, and then getting laid off because of someone’s bottom line not being met. “It’s entering the cycle and having it happen again and again and again. It ends with all hope being lost. It ends with becoming afraid to even go to a job interview to avoid the terror of facing yet another rejection.” Homes and Jobs “That’s the urban famine,” says Dion. “It’s OK to focus on providing housing for the homeless, but it will not work unless employment is brought into play. I look upon housing and employment as being the same as two tracks to a train. You need both or you derail.” The fact that one out of every two faces to enter Gateway is new is a significant statistic when the total intake at the hostel is taken into consideration. Last year, the 108-bed facility—a veritable boutique hostel when compared to 400-plus-bed behemoths such as Seaton House— saw 1,652 separate individuals take refuge at Gateway, with 1,065 staying for less than two weeks. “What that means is that 64 percent of the people who stayed here were men who were experiencing short-term homelessness,” says Dion. “This should be a startling statistic when it comes to demonstrating the changing face of homelessness. “The housing and job markets are so fragile that most people experiencing homelessness in Toronto today are those who simply cannot fnd the means to pay the rent. They are working-class men who are trying to get by but who need to humble themselves for short periods of time by living in a shelter long enough to get back on their feet.” And their average age was 41—just one year beyond the age when life is allegedly supposed to begin. Or so say the optimists. Dion Oxford, director of The Salvation Army’s Gateway hostel, says he is witnessing a modern-day “urban famine” in which many Canadian men can no longer fnd enough employment to feed, clothe and shelter themselves 18 | Faith & friends April 2006
faith Builders Home decorating shows such as Extreme Home Makeover and Trading Spaces have become a staple of North American TV. My personal favourite is Clean Sweep on the Learning Channel, a renovation show with three main steps: 1. Give over control of the house to the design team. 2. Empty the home of everything and “purge” the junk. 3. Reorganize the home into a new and more functional space for the family. Allowing professional designers into your home can feel like an intrusion at first. When the show’s participants are advised to give up some of the clutter in their lives—whether it’s a banged up dresser, ratty old curtains or their ’70s wardrobe—they often break into tears. It’s hard to let go of something so comfortable. The end result, however, is always a transformed home that produces smiles. It’s the same way with faith. Letting God, the ultimate Designer, take control of your life may mean making some significant changes, such as getting rid of the clutter. But if you allow Him to remodel your life, you will become more happy and balanced as a person. The Bible says: “Investigate my life, O God, fnd out everything about me; cross-examine and test me; get a clear picture of what I’m about” (Psalm 139:23- 24 The Message). God can remove any obstacle in your life. No matter what you are holding onto, God can take care of it. He’ll take out the trash and relieve you of the burdens of your past. But He doesn’t leave you feeling bare and empty. Instead, like the transformed homes on Clean Sweep, God gives you a life-changing spiritual renovation. As with the design show, this makeover includes three key steps: 1. Give over control of your life to the Designer (Psalm 139:23-24). 2. Let God take away your sins and the junk in your life (Isaiah 1:18). 3. Allow Him to renovate your life into something greater (Romans 12:1). How do you apply for God’s makeover? There’s no catch. Just open your heart to Him in prayer, read the Bible and join a church fellowship. There are no commercials, waiting lists, applications or contracts with network agencies. Just you, the Designer and a makeover that will change your life. Clean Sweep Do you need an extreme makeover? Three steps to purge the junk in your life by Peter Lublink With a spiritual makeover there are no commercials, waiting lists or applications April 2006 Faith & friends | 19
Even though I had experienced destruction and heartache while serving in Jamaica and during Zimbabwe’s struggle for independence, nothing prepared me for the horrifc upheaval I witnessed in Biloxi and Pass Christian, Mississippi. On August 29, 2005, Hurricane Katrina swept through the southern United States with devastating wrath. The Salvation Army responded immediately by providing food, water, clothing, shelter and medical supplies to those affected by the disaster. I was a member of a Canadian delegation of Salvation Army personnel sent to Mississippi to assist with the relief efforts. As the emotional and spiritual caregiver on my relief team, most of my time was spent listening to hurricane victims share their “Katrina story.” My role was to encourage them, comfort them, give them hugs, pray with them and, above all, make sure that they knew about the Gospel so that they would be able to fnd a home in Heaven through faith in Christ Jesus. One evening in November, after we had finished serving dinner to victims, emergency workers and volunteers, an elderly man approached our canteen. The man was carrying a box of supplies that he had received from the relief tent next to us. One of our canteen workers, Jim, helped the man carry the supplies to his car. I noticed that the man was having trouble walking, so I went and put my arm around him. Another canteen worker, Larry, found a chair for him. We offered him a bottle of cold water and something to eat. As I studied the man’s face, I could see that he was frustrated and in pain. He introduced himself as James and began to tell me his “Katrina story.” James’ house had been severely damaged by the hurricane. His two daughters had also lost their homes. Then, as the 84- year-old man spoke of his wife, Julia, he broke down and cried. He had not seen SOMEONE Cares A hurricane split James and his wife apart. But in the midst of destruction, The Salvation Army brought them back together by Major Lillian Spence In The Wake of Katrina 20 | Faith & friends April 2006
her in over two months. When the hurricane frst hit Mississippi, Julia had been evacuated to a rehabilitation centre one hour’s drive from their home. As their house had been demolished by Katrina, Julia had nowhere to return to. And James’ health condition meant that he was not well enough to drive to visit her. James longed to see his wife. I did my best to comfort him with Scripture and prayer, and he thanked me for caring for him in his moment of need. Then, as he was about to leave, he looked up and saw “The Salvation Army” written on the side of our canteen. He shouted: “The Salvation Army will help me.” James gave me the details of where his wife was staying as well as his home address. As it turned out, he only lived a few blocks away from our canteen. When the relief team met later at our command centre, I shared James’ story with Major Byron Jacobs, the team leader. Major Jacobs agreed with me that somehow The Salvation Army could fnd a way for James to see his wife. That night, I went home to my room with a lighter heart praising God for His compassion and sustaining grace. The next afternoon, after we had served lunch, we went looking for James. When I spotted him, he was wearing rubber boots and dirty gloves, trying to clean up some of the mess in front of his home. When I ran up to him, he began shouting: “The Salvation Army has come.” He took off his muddy gloves and hugged me. He took us into his home and one could still see the water marks on the wall a few inches from the ceiling. He had lost everything in his home and was now living in a FEMA trailer. We assured James that someone from our team would take him to visit his wife. His face lit up like a Christmas tree. We all stood huddled together in a circle and shed tears of joy as we prayed. James gave me lots of hugs and kisses and thanked us for caring for him. Later that week, Ken, one of our team members, drove James to Pass Christian to see Julia. I wish that I could have been there to witness that wonderful reunion. Weeks later, back in Canada, I received a letter from James. He had gone to a lot of trouble to find my address. He was so thankful to me and The Salvation Army for making it possible for him to be reunited with his wife. He was grateful for the wonderful way that God had used us to minister to him at his deepest point of need. I feel so privileged to have participated in the Katrina relief efforts. My life has been changed by Jesus’ love and compassion. I am deeply humbled to have been used by God to do Jesus’ work today—to literally be His hands reaching out to hurting and suffering people and look into the eyes of hurting humanity. Seeing The Salvation Army at work during the disaster relief has made me extremely proud to be a part of this worldwide organization. Thousands of hurricane victims receive help at a Salvation Army canteen April 2006 Faith & friends | 21
L ast year I read a remarkable book filled with compelling stories of shipwrecks, epic battles, sacrifcial love and enduring faithfulness. It impacted my life in a profound way, challenging me to be more compassionate and gracious to those around me. The book wasn’t The Kite Runner or A Million Little Pieces, but rather the Bible. Sacred Space An effective strategy to read the Bible without getting bogged down by John McAlister Beckons The Big Book 22 | Faith & friends April 2006
Yep, I made it through the big book. And a hefty one it is: my copy is a whopping 1,153 pages with small type. Perhaps that’s what keeps so many people from actually reading it. But apart from its sheer size, there are other signifcant factors that can discourage readers from enjoying the Bible. With the right approach, however, even those obstacles can be overcome. What is the Bible? The Bible is a collection of 66 books of varying length and format. It has two main parts: the Old Testament (OT), which contains 39 of the books, and the New Testament (NT) with 27. The OT includes books of history, poetry, literature, guidelines for community living and instructions about obeying and pleasing God. The NT is comprised of four accounts of the life of Jesus Christ, a history of the early Christian Church, letters written by Jesus’ followers and a concluding dream-narrative foretelling the end of the world. Taking this into account, readers should be wary of trying to slog through the Bible as though it was written by one author and in one particular style. It’s not structured like a novel or a modern-day manual, nor should it be read like one. While some may wish to open up their Bibles to page one and continue through to the end, that’s probably not a feasible approach for most readers. Beginning the Journey With 66 books to choose from, where does one start? There are many ways to approach the Bible, but one effective strategy is to begin with the Gospel of Luke. While readers will want to read the other gospel accounts (Matthew, Mark, John) later, Luke offers a vivid introduction to the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Acts of the Apostles continues where Luke fnishes off. In fact, most scholars believe that Luke and Acts were written by the same author. Acts tells the dramatic history of how Jesus’ followers established the Early Church, continuing Jesus’ mission on earth once He returned to His Father in Heaven. The Luke-Acts narrative provides a strong base for One-Year Bible Many Christians strive to read the Bible through once a year. While this may seem daunting, when broken up into chapters it can be quite manageable. In fact, it will probably only involve a commitment of 15 minutes per day. There are a few ways to do this. One option is to read at least three chapters a day, starting with Genesis (or any other book) and then progress through the rest of the Bible. Another option is to read two or three chapters of the OT and at least one from the NT. Many complement this by praying a psalm as well. There are Bibles formatted for this approach, and you can also access daily readings online at www. biblegateway.com or www. oneyearbibleonline.com. April 2006 Faith & friends | 23
reading the rest of the New Testament. What Next? The Apostle Paul was a central figure in the history of the Christian Church. In Acts we read how he became a follower of Jesus and then travelled throughout the Mediterranean world. Many of the letters in the New Testament were written by Paul to Christian communities in major cities such as Rome, Corinth and Thessalonica, as well as to fellow believers such as Timothy and Titus. Having learned in Acts about Paul’s life and role in the Church, readers can more easily understand the context of his writing. This holds true for the other New Testament letters, such as those written by Jesus’ brother James and Peter, one of His disciples. It is important to remember that the letters were written to specifc people who lived nearly 2,000 years ago. Contemporary readers will never be able to fully comprehend everything that is being communicated by the authors. Whereas the intended addressee(s) would have known the full context of the issues being raised, we don’t. However, the letters continue to provide us with authentic and relevant instruction on how to serve God well. Going Backwards Once you’ve read through a gospel or two, and tackled a few of the letters, you may wish to explore some of the books of the Old Testament. Here are a few suggestions to start you off. Genesis recounts the creation of the world and introduces the Israelites, God’s chosen people. Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy complete this narrative, showing how God rescued the Israelites from slavery in Egypt and established them as His people. This collection of fve books—often called the Readers should be wary of trying to slog through the Bible as though it was written by one author and in one particular style The raw emotion and honest refections of the Psalms are a comfort to many who are going through diffcult circumstances 24 | Faith & friends April 2006
Torah—feature Moses, Israel’s great leader. The next 12 books, from Joshua to Esther, chronicle the history of Israel following the death of Moses. They highlight the often tumultuous relationship between God and His people. The final 17 books of the Old Testament are the prophetic writings, written to rebuke the Israelites for their disobedience towards God. They can be quite diffcult to understand, and are best read in the context of the historical narratives introduced earlier. Wisdom Literature Wedged in-between the histories and the prophetic writings is the wisdom literature: Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Song of Songs. Proverbs and Ecclesiastes are collections of wise and practical truths to guide us in our everyday lives. The Song of Songs is a beautiful poem recounting the love of a bridegroom for his bride. Many Christians interpret the Bridegroom as Jesus Christ, and the Church and its people as the bride. The book of Job tells the powerful story of a man faced with incredible tragedy. In the midst of immense suffering, he continues to honour and glorify God the Father. Known as the prayer book of the Bible, the Psalms are a collection of 150 songs or prayers. Many people choose to pray through one or more each day, often in the morning and/or evening. The raw emotion and honest refections of the Psalms are a comfort to many who are going through diffcult circumstances. The Right Mindset When reading the Bible, one should remain open to God’s direction and guidance. “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that all God’s people may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). It’s wise to begin each reading with a prayer, asking God to reveal His truth through His Holy Book. When approached with sincere intentions, Scripture will never fail to challenge, inspire and comfort. How to Choose a Bible If you browse through your local bookstore, you’ll notice that Bibles come in all sorts of sizes, shapes and colours. It can be mindnumbingly diffcult to know how to choose the right one. Since the Bible was originally written in Greek, Hebrew and Aramaic, most of us require a Bible that has been translated into English. The most common translations available are: Today’s New International Version or its predecessor the New International Version; the New Revised Standard Version; and the New King James Version. Another available resource is The Message, which is a modernday paraphrase of The Bible. Read a similar section from a few different translations to see which version you feel most comfortable with. If you’re currently attending a church or Bible study, you may want to inquire as to what version the rest of the group is using. April 2006 Faith & friends | 25
lite Stuff Recipes Chicken and Corn Stew This old-fashioned recipe will warm your heart and stomach. Try serving with a gouda cheese grilled sandwich. INGREDIENTS 1 kg (2 lb) skinless boneless chicken breasts and thighs, cut into 2-inch pieces 30 ml (2 tbsp) unsalted butter 15 ml (1 tbsp) vegetable oil 500 g (1 lb) boiled potatoes, sliced 1 large onion, sliced 1 garlic clove, minced 10 ml (2 tsp) chopped fresh thyme 30 ml (2 tbsp) all-purpose four 425 ml (1¾ cups) low-sodium chicken broth (14 f oz) 175 ml (¾ cup) water 2 ears frozen corn, cut crosswise into 1-inch pieces 60 ml (¼ cup) heavy cream METHOD Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat butter and oil in a large, heavy pot on high heat, then lightly brown chicken about 5 minutes. Transfer chicken to a bowl. Add onion, potatoes, garlic and thyme to pot and sauté, stirring occasionally, 4 to 5 minutes, then add four and cook, stirring, 1 minute. Whisk in broth and water and bring to a boil. Add potatoes and corn, then cover and simmer over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes. Stir in chicken and cream, then simmer, covered, until chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender, 5 to 10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper and thyme. Makes 6 servings. Fruit and Nut Chocolate Chunks Crunchy and sweet, this delectable dessert is a crowd pleaser. For best results, use good quality chocolate. INGREDIENTS 560 g (1¼ lb) bittersweet chocolate, broken into small pieces Vegetable oil for greasing pan 160 ml (2⁄³ cup) dried cranberries 160 ml (2⁄³ cup) raisins 160 ml (2⁄³ cup) salted roasted shelled pistachios (3 oz) 160 ml (2⁄³ cup) salted roasted cashews (3 oz) METHOD Melt chocolate in top of a double boiler or metal bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth. Line bottom and sides of an 8-inch square baking pan with foil, leaving a 2-inch overhang, then lightly oil foil. Remove chocolate from heat and stir in fruit and nuts, then spread evenly in baking pan. Freeze until frm, about 20 minutes. Lift candy in foil from pan using overhang and transfer to a cutting board. Peel off foil and cut candy with a long heavy knife into 36 pieces. 26 | Faith & friends April 2006
Across 1. Whip to a froth 5. Arm joint 9. Native of New Delhi 10. Isolated hill 13. Point in question 14. Ruin 15. Retain 16. Direct a gun 18. Tears 20. Robbery 22. Rocked 23. Seasonal sickness 24. Rings of a chain 25. Introductory section (4-2) 26. Faithful 27. Feel grief Down 2. Residence 3. Not go to bed (3,2) 4. Leg joint 5. Native American home 6. Egyptian sun god 7. Purpose 8. Piece of work 10. Two-wheeled transport 11. Sleeping sickness carrier (6,3) 16. Real 17. Inquires 18. Horned beast 19. Card game 20. Narrate 21. Bloodsucking insect 22. Slender Challenge Crossword SS: 1. whisk; O ACR Crossword Solution: . issue; 3 . Indian; 10. butte; 1 9 . wrist; 5 . aim; 6 . keep; 1 5 . wreck; 1 41 . fu; 3 . rips; 20. theft; 22. shook; 2 81 . mourn 7 . loyal; 2 6 . lead in; 2 5 . links; 2 42 . knee; 4 . sit up; 3 : 2. house; N WOD . task; 8 . intention; 7 . hair; 6 . wigwam; 5 . asks; 7 . actual; 1 6 . bike; 11. tsetse fy; 1 10 . poker; 20. tell; 21. fea; 22. slim 9 . rhino; 1 81 3 6 4 5 6 3 9 2 4 7 8 7 5 5 6 9 3 2 9 8 3 7 5 9 4 1 7 2 5 2 8 6 Sudoku Puzzle Solutions Copyright www.crosswordsite.com. Used with permission. Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3 x 3 box contains the digits 1 through 9 2 1 7 3 8 6 5 4 9 5 4 6 7 1 9 2 3 8 3 8 9 5 2 4 1 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 7 4 5 6 4 7 5 1 6 8 9 2 3 6 2 3 9 4 5 7 8 1 1 3 4 6 7 2 8 9 5 9 6 8 4 5 1 3 7 2 7 5 2 8 9 3 6 1 4 April 2006 Faith & friends | 27
F or many years it was my habit to start the day with the newspaper. I savoured my customary peanut butter and honey sandwich (lightly buttered) and washed it down with milk, while digesting the Calgary Herald, a longtime friend who greeted me seven days a week at our front door. As a writer and editor, I need to be aware of current trends and events, I kept reminding myself. And so I spent 10-15 Before reaching for the newspaper and coffee, say a prayer of thanksgiving. It’s a great way to start the day by Phil Callaway Morning has Broken 28 | Faith & friends April 2006
minutes each morning dutifully scanning the bulky pages for perceptive quotes, quips and facts. My wife munched cold cereal nearby, gazing out our dining room window, talking to the kids or asking me questions I sometimes answered. One day a certain truth dawned on me. “Honey,” I said, “Listen to this.” Ramona listened as I read the following headlines which were all on page three: ■ Car bomb kills 21 in Russia ■ Man dies in fre ■ Smuggling ring’s suspected boss nabbed ■ 20 die after plane crashes on island ■ Thousands protest nuclear waste move ■ Police arrest six in pedophile plot ■ Bus plunges into ravine killing 14 ■ Desire for revenge sparked beating Folding the newspaper and tucking it into the bottom of the birdcage, it occurred to me that my habit of starting the day this way was contributing to a rising stress level that was a growing concern. And while we dare not hide from the fact that the world is a tragic place where bad things happen, several questions came to mind: ■ Does the news spark compassion, prayer and generosity, or an icy numbness within me? ■ What did past cultures miss by not knowing what occurred a world away? ■ What beneft can we possibly receive from a daily diet of bad news? ■ Is this really news, or merely a compilation of what editors who need to sell newspapers think people will read? I made a decision that day to save the newspaper for later. I still read it, but I don’t start the day with it nor do I let the sun go down with the news. If I skip a few weeks, chances are I didn’t miss a thing. In fact, sometimes the best news is no news at all. And when I search the newspaper, I fnd things I didn’t fnd before. Like these actual headlines: ■ Dentist receives plaque ■ Girl becomes Methodist after delicate operation ■ Cemetery allows people to be buried by their pets ■ Local high school dropouts cut in half ■ Father of 9 fned $100 for failing to stop ■ Kids make nutritious snacks ■ Hospital sued by 7 foot doctors ■ Obesity study looks for larger test group When I was a boy my mother told me numerous times, “Son, you are what you read. So don’t read more than one Archie comic book at a time.” I don’t get legalistic about this, but I’m learning to start the morning differently. I begin with thanksgiving: for a new day, for the strength to open my eyelids, for a dog that has probably pounced on me by now, licking my face and sneezing in my beard. I’m learning that my circle of concern may be as large as the world, but my circle of influence is limited to only a few people. I’m learning to spend my time with the few, modelling compassion and integrity. Jesus understood this well. Mark I made a decision to save the newspaper for later. I still read it, but sometimes the best news is no news at all April 2006 Faith & friends | 29
Missing Persons The Salvation Army will help search for missing relatives. Send information to the Family Tracing Service Office, 2 Overlea Blvd, Toronto ON M4H 1P4. Mark envelope “Inquiry.” Addresses will be forwarded to the inquirer only with permission of the person being sought. For more information, call Family Tracing at (416) 425-2111. DICKSON, Peter Lawrence. Born 1944 in Liverpool, United Kingdom. Mother’s name Lilian. Last contact 1976. Sister-in-law inquiring. FRAPPIER, Réjean. Born 1949 in Compton County, Quebec. Mother’s name Marianne. Last contact 2002. Sister inquiring. PARSONS, Patricia. Born 1934 in Nottingham, England. Mother’s name Elizabeth. Last contact 1979. Niece inquiring. TAPP, Robert Arthur William. Born 1944 in India. Mother’s name Marguerite. Last contact 2004. Mother inquiring. 1:35 tells us that, “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where He prayed.” The disciples were surprised that He was gone. They went looking for Him. When they fnally found Him, they exclaimed, “Everyone is asking for you.” Though I’m no Greek scholar, I imagine Peter scolded Jesus for turning off His cell phone. “Everyone’s trying to get a hold of You,” he said, wagging his finger. “People back in Nazareth want You to speak at a fundraiser. There are things to do, crowds to impact, people to heal. Didn’t You get the message I left on Your answering machine?” Jesus merely smiled at His disciples. He knew that they would one day understand the stress of public life, and He hoped they would learn to start the day in the very best place, on their knees. I have a few regrets in life. But never have I regretted a moment I’ve spent reading the Bible. And so I make those the frst pages I open each day. On one of those mornings, I noticed these words a busy King by the name of David wrote a few thousand years ago: “Let the morning bring me word of Your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in You. Show me the way I should go, for to You I lift up my soul” (Psalm 143:8). The early hours are of particular importance in shaping our day. Morning is a holy time. A chance to start again. A time to expect the best from God. An opportunity to search for and focus on the good news. Phil Callaway is a bestselling author and host of “Laughing Matters” on 100 Huntley Street. Visit him at www.philcallaway.com I’m learning to start the morning differently. I begin with thanksgiving for a new day 30 | Faith & friends April 2006
Steps to a Christian Life Admit your need of forgiveness For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). Believe in Jesus Christ Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved (Acts 16:31). Commit yourself to God and live for Him In all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight (Proverbs 3:6). I want to: ❏ accept Jesus Christ as personal Saviour and learn about being a Christian ❏ learn more about The Salvation Army ❏ connect with a local Salvation Army church ❏ receive information about Bible study material ❏ ask for prayers for me and for ________________________ ❏ tell you I am praying for your ministry Return this coupon to: Faith & Friends The Salvation Army 2 Overlea Boulevard Toronto, Ontario CANADA M4H 1P4 (416) 422-6112 [email protected] ❏ subscribe to Faith & Friends at its annual price of $16.50 (includes GST) [U.S.A. $21.50, foreign $23.50] Please print Name Address Town/City Prov/State Postal/Zip Code Phone ( ) E-mail ❏ Send my Gift Subscription of Faith & Friends to Name Address Town/City Prov/State Postal/Zip Code Phone ( ) E-mail Send a gift card ❏ Yes ❏ No Payment: ❏ Cheque ❏ Money Order (Payable to Faith & Friends) ❏ Visa ❏ Mastercard Name on the card Card # Expiry / April 2006 Faith & friends | 31
The Salvation Army THQ Child Sponsorship Program 2 Overlea Blvd, Toronto ON M4H 1P4 Tel: (416)422-6164 Fax: (416)422-6133 Ten-year-old Andrew Mafabi is from Uganda. He suffers from a disability and is unable to attend school because his parents can’t afford the fees. Supti Roy attends a school in Bangladesh for hearing-impaired children. She gradually lost her hearing due to typhoid and malnutrition. One dollar doesn’t go far in Canada. Other than a cup of coffee, a chocolate bar or a pack of gum, your loonie won’t buy much. But across the world, your dollar may mean the difference between life and death. Millions of children worldwide have little or no access to food, clean water, shelter, education, medical attention or adequate clothing. They’re starving, they’re sick, they’re dying. Their only hope is for someone to reach out to them in support and love. Thankfully, it doesn’t take much. Only $25 a month—that’s less than a dollar a day—enables a child to receive the support she/he needs. Sadly, too few of us are willing to make that commitment. And so children are left to suffer in despair. Is a child’s life worth more to you than a cup of coffee? Decide now to become a child sponsor. Your commitment will bring new hope and opportunities to a young life. To sign up or for more information, visit www.salvationarmy.ca/sponsorship 30,000 Children Will Die of Hunger Today You can do something about it